Asking a family member to be appointed as a legal guardian for your young children is an important decision, and it’s essential to have a thoughtful and respectful conversation with them about it. Here are some tips on how to have that conversation:
- Start by expressing your appreciation for your relationship. Let your family member know how much you value their relationship with your children and that you trust and respect them.
- Explain the role of a guardian. Explain what being a legal guardian entails, such as the responsibility for the care and well-being of the children and making decisions about their upbringing in the event of your incapacitation or death.
- Share your reasons for choosing them. Let your family member know why you have chosen them to be your children’s guardian, and explain how you believe they are the best person for the job.
- Discuss any concerns they may have. Listen to any concerns your family member may have about being a guardian, and address them openly and honestly.
- Provide support. Offer to provide resources and support for your family member as they fulfill their role as guardian. This could include information about your children’s needs and preferences, contacts for professionals such as attorneys or financial advisors, and anything else that could be helpful.
- Be clear about your expectations. Let your family member know what you expect of them as the guardian of your children, such as how you want your children to be raised and any specific instructions you want followed.
- Make it formal. Once you’ve had the conversation, it’s important to make the arrangement formal by including it in your will and other legal documents such as power of attorney.
- Consider the feelings and wishes of your children. It’s also important to consider the feelings and wishes of your children.